Hello everyone, my name is Irene, welcome to the Makings and Musings podcast. I’m a full-time artist and illustrator, and I’m here to help you start and grow your creative practice. In this episode, I want to give you some tips on how to begin drawing and make art a part of your daily life.

Many people think you need special talents or expensive supplies to start drawing, but that’s not true. Let’s debunk that myth together.

First, keep it simple. Look around your house for supplies you already have. When choosing paper, start with a small sketchbook. It’s less overwhelming and easier to fill. The paper should feel nice to draw on. For pencils and pens, start with a basic graphite pencil or a ballpoint pen. You can always add more materials as you become more comfortable.

Integrate drawing into your daily routine. Carry a small sketchbook with you and draw during your commute or while watching TV. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Just make a little sketch every day. This helps build a habit and keeps you engaged.

Pick a topic you love. Maybe it’s flowers, your pet, or something from your childhood. Use reference photos from sites like Unsplash or Pixabay, or even from your own phone. Remember, it’s okay to start with photos.

When drawing, focus on large shapes first. Don’t get bogged down by details too soon. This helps with proportions and makes your drawing process smoother. Squinting at your reference can help you see these big shapes more clearly.

Remember, drawing is a skill that takes practice. Most artists aren’t born with the ability to draw perfectly; they learn and improve over time. Practice regularly, and don’t be discouraged by early efforts.

Finally, keep a sketchbook. It’s a great way to track your progress. Don’t worry about making it perfect. Use it as a place to experiment and learn. I’ll share some images from my own sketchbook to show you that it’s okay to have messy pages.

So, start simple, find joy in the process, and draw a little every day. Happy drawing!

You can find me on all social media platforms as @makingsandmusings  my website is www.makingsandmusings.com and my community is here: www.makingsandmusings.com/community